8 Versions of "The Little Drummer Boy"

In 1941 music teacher Katherine Davis turned a Czech Christmas carol into one of the most famous songs in the English language by translating the lyrics for "Carol of the Drum." Harry Simeone recorded the song and changed its title to "The Little Drummer Boy" in 1958. According to Songfacts, this song "was released around Christmas every year from 1958-1962. It made the US Top-40 all 5 years and became a holiday classic." Wikipedia reports that there are more than 220 versions of "The Little Drummer Boy."

This famous carol has been recorded by gospel, country, pop, and punk musicians.

Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey recorded a medley of O little Town of Bethlehem and Little Drummer Boy.

Neema Ntalel and the Kenyan Boys Choir

Ntalel describes her music on Facebook as Afro Fusion.

Emmylou Harris

Country singer Emmylou Harris sings also performs gospel songs.

Kenny G

Are you ready for the saxophone?

Mandisa

Former American Idol contestant Mandisa recorded Little Drummer Boy on her album It's Christmas.

Jars of Clay

This recording is from one of the biggest Christian bands of the 1990s.

Whiteheart

Whiteheart's Facebook page reports the Christian band will be performing again in 2014 after taking a break.